A quaint neighborhood "icehouse" near downtown Houston and close to Sunnyside, Jimmie's Place has a definite down-home atmosphere. Jimmie's only accepts cash for payment--no credit cards. There's no dress code, and customers can even bring their (well-behaved) dogs into the bar. Jimmie's occasionally has live music, including country. This laid-back bar/music club has outdoor seating and attracts an eclectic clientele.
Houston's House of Blues, located on Caroline Street in the city's downtown Pavilions shopping complex, has state-of-the art sound, a full-service restaurant, and a 1,500-capacity two-story concert area. Popular country artists like Willie Nelson often play the venue when they pass through town. The club's Foundation Room features local bands from time to time. Houston's HOB is just four blocks away from the George R. Brown Convention Center and close to Minute Maid Park, home of baseball's Astros.
A combination dive bar and sports bar, the Lone Star in the downtown/central district near Sunnyside, serves inexpensive beer and cocktails for the after-work crowd. The Lone Star is famous locally for its eclectic, country-flavored jukebox and pool tables. Free hot dogs are served Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Blanco's is a diehard country and western club in central Houston with live acts like yodeler Don Wasler and country-rock artist Mike Stinson. Blanco's has a full kitchen and "Happy Hours" that last most of the day Mondays through Fridays. Wednesday is open mic night, with a live professional band playing as well. Live bands also play Thursdays and Fridays. Blanco's is closed to the general public on weekends, but may be rented for private events on Saturdays and Sundays. Blanco's serves chicken wings and other tasty fried bar foods, ice-cold beer, and offers drink specials on Ladies' Night (Wednesdays). Regular patrons are straight out of "Urban Cowboy" in cowboy hats and cowboy boots. There's a dance floor for customers to practice the two-step and other country-western dances.